What Are the Dangers of Trail Riding in English Saddle?

An English saddle is often tougher for beginners than a Western saddle. A Western saddle has a deeper seat and a horn in the front, while the English saddle is light and allows closer contact with the horse.

  1. The Seat

    • English saddles hold the rider's body in a forward position, making your seat less stable on the trail. An unexpected buck could throw you from the horse easier than if you were riding a Western saddle.

    Your Hands

    • English saddles often entail use of an English bit, usually a snaffle, which requires the use of both hands. In case of trouble, you would have no free hand to hold on to the saddle.

    Your Legs

    • An English saddle leaves nothing between your legs and the horse. If the unexpected happens on the trail and your horse bolts, your the natural reaction would be to grab on with your legs, thereby signaling to the horse to move faster.

    The Gaits

    • English riders post at the trot, which can be exhausting over a long trail ride if you are a casual rider. It also can place your center of balance out of your seat in an emergency.

    The Horse

    • English saddles require a much better personal connection with the animal than Western saddles. If you are riding a horse you don't know well, you may not perceive the environmental stimulus that terrifies the animal, and thus won't be able to calm it.